An infinite question is often destroyed by finite answers. To define everything is to annihilate much that gives us laughter and joy.

With my intellect I see cause for nothing but pessimism and even despair. But I can't settle for what my intellect tells me. That's not all of it...There are still stars which move in ordered and beautiful rhythm. There are still people in this world who keep promises... That's enough to keep my heart optimistic no matter how pessimistic my mind.

The artist cannot hold back; it is impossible, because writing, or any other discipline of art, involves participation in suffering, in the ills and the occasional stabbing joys that come from being part of the human drama.

Charles Wallace and the unicorn moved through the time-spinning reaches of a far glazy, and he realized that the galaxy itself was part of a mighty orchestra, and each star and planet within the galaxy added its own instrument to the music of the spheres. As long as the ancient harmonies were sung, the universe would not entirely lose its joy.

And joy is always a promise.